Tourism in Algeria: A Hidden Gem of Africa.

Algeria is the largest country in Africa, with a fantastic diversity of landscapes, cultural legacy, seven World Heritage sites, and beautiful beaches. It is also one of the most overlooked destinations in the world, with only 2.7 million foreign tourists in 20131. However, this may change soon, as the government launched a strategic plan to boost the tourism sector by 20252. In this article, we will explore some of the reasons why you should consider visiting Algeria for your next vacation.

The Sahara Desert

One of the main attractions of Algeria is the Sahara, the largest desert in the world, covering about 80% of the country’s territory. The Sahara offers a variety of landscapes and experiences, from sand dunes and oases to rock formations and ancient cave paintings. You can explore the desert by camel, 4x4, or on foot, and enjoy the hospitality of the nomadic people who live there. Some of the highlights of the Sahara include:

• Tassili N’Ajjer National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site that contains over 15,000 rock paintings and engravings dating back to prehistoric times. The park also features stunning rock forests and stone giants that create a surreal scenery3.
• Hoggar Mountains: A mountain range that rises above the desert plateau, reaching an altitude of 3,003 meters at Mount Tahat, the highest peak in Algeria. The mountains are home to diverse flora and fauna, as well as ancient tombs and monuments4.
• Ghardaïa: A historic town that is part of a pentapolis (a group of five towns) known as the M’zab Valley, another UNESCO World Heritage site. The town is famous for its unique architecture, culture, and religious traditions that have been preserved for centuries by the Mozabite people5.

The Mediterranean Coast

Algeria has a long coastline on the Mediterranean Sea, with over 1,000 kilometers of sandy beaches and rocky cliffs. The coast is dotted with charming towns and cities that offer a mix of history, culture, and modernity. You can enjoy the sun and sea, as well as visit some of the most magnificent Roman sites in existence, such as Timgad and Djemila. Some of the popular coastal destinations are:

• Algiers: The capital and largest city of Algeria, also known as El Bahdja (the Joyful) or El Beida (the White). Algiers is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that boasts a rich heritage and a stunning location on a bay surrounded by hills. The city’s main attraction is its ancient Casbah, a steep and narrow maze of streets that is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Casbah contains many historical monuments, such as the Ketchaoua Mosque, the Martyrs’ Memorial, and the Dar Hassan Pacha Palace.
• Oran: The second largest city and the main port of Algeria, also known as La Radieuse (the Radiant) or Wahran (the Lioness). Oran is a lively and colorful city that has a strong Spanish influence and a famous musical tradition. The city offers many attractions, such as the Fort de Santa-Cruz, which overlooks the bay and offers panoramic views; the Marche Medina Jedida, a bustling market where you can find everything from spices to souvenirs; and the Foret de Canastel, a green oasis where you can relax and enjoy nature.
• Annaba: A coastal city that is also one of the oldest in Algeria, dating back to the Phoenician times. Annaba is known for its beautiful beaches, such as Ain Achir and Rizzi Amor, where you can swim, surf, or sunbathe. The city is also famous for its cultural and historical sites, such as the Basilica of St Augustine, where the remains of the Christian theologian are buried; the Hippo Regius Museum, which displays artifacts from the ancient Roman city; and the Cours de la Revolution, a lively square where you can find cafes, restaurants, and shops.

The Cultural Diversity

Algeria is a country that has been influenced by various civilizations and cultures throughout its history, from Berbers and Arabs to Romans and Ottomans. This diversity is reflected in its people, languages, religions, arts, and cuisines. Algeria is a melting pot of cultures that offers a unique and enriching experience for visitors. You can discover:

• The Berber culture: The Berbers are the indigenous people of North Africa who have their own language (Tamazight), customs, traditions, and music. They are known for their hospitality, craftsmanship (such as carpets, pottery, jewelry), and resistance to foreign domination. You can learn more about the Berber culture by visiting the Kabylie region, where you can see the traditional villages, markets, and festivals; or by visiting the Tassili N’Ajjer National Park, where you can admire the rock art that depicts their ancient way of life.
• The Arab culture: The Arabs are the majority ethnic group in Algeria who speak Arabic and practice Islam. They have contributed to the development of the country’s literature, architecture, science, and art. You can appreciate the Arab culture by visiting the mosques, madrasas, and mausoleums that adorn the cities and towns; or by listening to the Andalusian music, a genre that originated in medieval Spain and was brought to Algeria by the Moors.
• The French culture: The French are the former colonial rulers of Algeria who left a lasting impact on the country’s society, politics, and economy. They have also influenced the country’s language (French is widely spoken and used as a lingua franca), education, cuisine, and fashion. You can experience the French culture by visiting the colonial buildings, such as the Notre Dame d’Afrique Cathedral in Algiers or the Palais de la Culture in Constantine; or by tasting the Algerian-French fusion dishes, such as couscous, ratatouille, or crepes.

The Conclusion

Algeria is a country that has a lot to offer to tourists who are looking for a diverse, authentic, and adventurous destination. It is a country that combines the beauty of nature, the richness of history, and the vibrancy of culture. It is a country that is waiting to be discovered and appreciated by more people. If you are interested in visiting Algeria, you can find more information and travel deals on Bing Travel. Bon voyage!